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Topic: Exercise and Fitness

On the 21st: We discussed the current state of coal in Illinois and learned what the future may hold for the mining, production and use of coal in the state. Plus, when it comes to running, is shorter the new longer?

How has Hillary Clinton’s campaign changed the conversation about women holding political office? Some of our female politicians in Illinois weigh in on gender and politics. Then, as we approach marathon and half marathon season, many in Illinois will be taking on those 26.2 and 13.1 miles feats, whiles other are left others wondering "why?"

With the Super Bowl on Sunday, all eyes are on football. The sport also happens to be Kevin Jackson’s area of scientific expertise. He came to the University of Illinois to play football while pursuing a career in science, and now he’s developing a cooling helmet that may help with athletes’ head injuries. Through his research with the University’s Beckman Institute and the Athletics Department, Jackson wants to reduce the side effects of concussions and other brain injuries for athletes.

Former Illini linebacker Simon Cvijanovic, whose complaints led to the firing of football coach Tim Beckman and athletic director Mike Thomas, was interviewed for a Tuesday segment on HBO's "Real Sports With Bryant Gumbel." He said there's 'no doubt' team doctors conspired with coaches for him to keep playing despite injuries.

A former University of Illinois soccer player has joined a growing list of the school's athletes who have complained about improper medical treatment and playing conditions. Casey Conine filed a lawsuit Monday in Champaign County Circuit Court claiming she was cleared to play in October 2014 after suffering a third concussion in two years at Illinois.

Offensive lineman Simon Cvijanovic wrote a series of Twitter posts Sunday accusing Beckman and some staff members of not offering proper treatment for a torn meniscus in his knee. U of I Athletic Director Mike Thomas supported Beckman in a later statement.

Mark Morris says the outreach work his company does stems from his belief that dance and other physical movement is a basic facet of human artistic expression, part of “everything that makes a people more civilized and empathetic”.

Organizers of the Illinois Marathon say they're optimistic Saturday's race will go on despite a forecast of rain and thunderstorms. Scott Friedlein is the Emergency Services Coordinator for the race. He says, "We run this race rain or shine. The only thing that would stop this event from occurring is dangerous weather which would be lightning or tornadic activity in the area."